Partial success for the management of Cyperus esculentus in Switzerl
Cyperus esculentus (Cyperaceae, EPPO List of IAP) is widespread in Asia, North, Central and South America, Africa, as well as in Europe, and its origin remains uncertain. The species is thought to have been introduced as a contaminant of gladiolus bulbs in Europe. Although not producing seeds, C. esculentus reproduces very efficiently vegetatively through bulbils that are spread via agricultural machinery. In many crops, the species is very difficult to manage, but partial success can be obtained with crop rotation and appropriate preventive measures. Agricultural machinery should to be carefully cleaned, and any plant of C.;esculentus found should be incinerated.
In Switzerland, Agroscope Changins-Wädenswil (ACW) is currently undertaking several experiments on the management of the plant in highly infested maize crops, in particular through mechanical and chemical management measures. Beet root, potatoes and vegetables crops should no longer be grown on infested land, as the risk of spreading C. esculentus through machinery is too high. In addition, the wide space in between plant rows and the slow development of these crops are very favorable to C. esculentus.
Sources
Confédération Suisse (2011) Souchet comestible : agir avant qu’il ne soit trop tard! (in French).
Confederazione Switzera (2011) Lo Zigolo dolce: agire prima che sia troppo tardi! (in Italian).
Schweirische Eidgenossenschaft (2011) Erdmandelgras – Handeln, bevor es zu spät ist (in German).